ALLMAN BROTHERS FROM THE BEGINNING
For most of us, the Allman Brothers' experience began with their self-titled 1969 debut record. There and then we were introduced to a cosmic, roots-driven sound created by a brotherhood that was cast with some of the most compelling musical figures in modern day rock and roll. Their music would establish a sound that joined jazz, gospel, country, rock and blues in a manner that was explosive both in the studio and live on stage. Night after night it would morph, grow and take on new and different forms. Their music was fresh, flexible and filled with a dynamic that to this day resonates across generations and geographic borders.
What few know is that across a three-year period that preceded their well-known debut, Gregg and Duane Allman fronted two bands, the Allman Joys and Hour Glass. Both bands found their way into the studio and recorded material that resulted in four now rare records. As the band begins to celebrate their 50th anniversary they will release a comprehensive box set composed of 10 vinyl LPs, and five CDs. This will be joined by some rare live material from both the original and most recent band lineups. But their story only has a proper context when weighed against the four studio recordings that precede all of this. In these records, Gregg and Duane embark on a 36-month journey of musical discovery that just may provide perspective on the collective talents they brought to their craft, to the ability they had to pick talent and build bands, and to the commitment they made to design a sound for the ages.
In March, the original Allman Joys album, the two Hour Glass recordings, and a special collection of music called Duane & Gregg will be re-released. The music here moves from pop-driven tracks that were largely supplied by their label to songs that quickly begin to provide glimpses of what would soon become their signature sound. These four early recordings are truly “where it all begins” and for die-hard fans they are a must-have addition that properly rounds out any Allman collection.
Allman Brothers historian John Lynskey and band manager Bert Holman spoke with Goldmine about why these albums are so essential in telling the full story about the band, and how within a very tight window they chart the rapid evolution of one of the most important and enduring musical acts of all time.
GM: This music is so different from what we
